Operate a camera

Capture moving images with a camera. Operate the camera skilfully and safely to obtain high quality material.

operating a camera
use equipment to capture images
operate cameras
use photographic or television equipment to capture moving images

skill/competence

sector-specific

Operate a camera is an essential skill of the following occupations:

Vlogger: Vloggers make online videos to talk about a wide range of subjects such as politics, fashion, economics and sports. They can relate objective facts, but often they also give their opinion on the related topic. Vloggers post these videos online on social media or streaming platforms, often accompanied with written text. They also interact with their viewers via comments.
Photographer: Photographers take pictures using digital or film cameras and equipment. Photographers may develop negatives or use computer software in order to produce finished images and prints.
Camera operator: Camera operators setup and operate digital film cameras to shoot domestic motion pictures or television programs. They work together with the video and motion picture director, the director of photography, or the private client. Camera operators give advice on how to shoot scenes to actors, the video and motion picture director and other camera operators.

Operate a camera is optional for these occupations. This means knowing this skill may be an asset for career advancement if you are in one of these occupations.

Video operator: Video operators control the (projected) images of a performance based on the artistic or creative concept, in interaction with the performers. Their work is influenced by and influences the results of other operators. Therefore, the operators work closely together with the designers, operators and performers. Video operators prepare media fragments, supervise the setup, steer the technical crew, program the equipment and operate the video system. Their work is based on plans, instructions and other documentation.
 
Video and motion picture director: Video and motion picture directors are responsible for the overall production of a movie or television program. They edit and translate the script into audiovisual images. Video and motion picture directors supervise and manage the film crew. They convey their creative vision on the actors, audio and video equipment operators, lighting technicians, etc and direct them. Video and motion picture directors also supervise the editing of the footage.
Promotion assistant: Promotion assistants provide support in the implementation of programs and promotional efforts in points-of-sale. They research and administer all the information required by managers to decide whether promotional programs are required. If so, they support in getting of materials and resources for the promotional action.
Stop-motion animator: Stop-motion animators create animations by using puppets or clay models.
Casting director: Casting directors select actors for all roles in a motion picture or television series. They co-operate with the producer and director to determine what they are looking for. Casting directors contact talent agents and organise interviews and auditions for the parts. They determine the fees and contracts for the actors and extras.
Director of photography: Directors of photography are responsible for the visual interpretation of the script and all photography components of the film, including framing, colouring, lightning, style and locations. They create the visual look of the film or television programme and select the filming equipment, including the lens and filters. Directors of photography manage the visual equipment operators and lighting technicians. They work together with the video and motion picture director to achieve the desired effect.
Audio-visual technician: Audio-visual technicians set up, operate and maintain equipment to record and edit images and sound for radio and television broadcasts, at live events and for telecommunication signals.
Animation layout artist: Animation layout artists work with the cameramen and director to coordinate and create optimal 3D animation shots. They translate 2D storyboards into 3D animated shots and are responsible for camera angles, frames and lighting of animation scenes. Animation layout artists decide which action takes place in which animation scene.
Script supervisor: Script supervisors are responsible for the continuity of the movie or television program. They watch every shot to make sure that it’s according to the script. Script supervisors ensure that during editing the story makes visual and verbal sense and does not contain any continuity errors.

References

1. Operate a camera – ESCO